Ronan’s new arrival is top of his leaderboard

ST ANDREWS, September 4, 2017 – Rock star Ronan Keating has no problem identifying his favourite moment in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. “Seeing my name at the top of the leaderboard in the Team Championship after day two in St Andrews was very special,” he says.

Unfortunately for Ronan, star of Boyzone and now a highly respected solo singer, that was way back in 2008. “It would be nice to repeat it. It’s the only year I’ve made the cut,” he smiles.

But it may be a tall order. Ronan admits it has not been a great year for his golf, for the excellent reason that wife Storm gave birth to their first child, Cooper, in April. “I haven’t played much. Just some charity events. With the arrival of our wonderful baby boy, Storm and I have had to put golf on the back foot for a while.”

This will be Ronan’s eighth appearance as an amateur and he says it is an event he loves playing in. “I have been lucky enough to play in some incredible golf events but nothing comes close to the Dunhill Links.

“Us amateurs can only dream of playing golf on the Tour, but playing in the tournament alongside some of the best golfers in the world gives us a feeling of being part of it and to play on some of the greatest links courses in the world is a bonus.”

Last year Ronan shared a memorable fourball with Westlife star Brian McFadden, and the two Irishmen had an unforgettable day. “I love playing golf with Brian. He is as passionate about the game as I am. He is a great golfer and I loved playing with him. It’s always incredibly intimidating playing with big name pro’s, so playing with a mate really helps.”

Ronan’s music career is as busy as ever. He is currently recording a new Boyzone album to celebrate 25 years since the band’s founding, and has just started hosting the breakfast show on Magic FM in London. He is also looking forward to going on a Boyzone anniversary tour. “Yes, we are all super excited. A new album first, then a tour later in 2018.”

While Ronan is serious and passionate about his golf, his irrepressible sense of humour always shines through.

We asked him what his target would be this year.

Answer: “The hut on the right of the 18th tee.”